2020 Ram 1500 Review: Ram 1500 vs. 2020 Chevrolet Silverado
2020 Ram 1500 Review: Ram 1500 vs. 2020 Chevrolet Silverado
Posted on September 21, 2020
There's no shortage of capable pickup trucks on the Canadian market. But with so many models to choose from, it's important to buy wisely. One of the all-time best sellers in its segment is the Ram 1500, but is the 2020 version still worth its place at the head of the pack? To find out, read our comparison with its close rival, the Chevrolet Silverado.
Powertrain and Performance
Both the Ram 1500 and the Chevrolet Silverado are available in a variety of engine configurations. At the base level, Ram's 3.5L V6 might seem a little underpowered compared to the Silverado's 4.3L V6, but appearances can be deceptive.
In reality, the Ram 1500 comfortably outperforms the Chevy in raw horsepower terms, pushing out an impressive 305 hp compared to the Silverado's 285 hp. If pure engine power is an important factor in your choice, the 2020 Ram 1500 is a clear winner in this race.
What's more, this extra power doesn't come at the cost of fuel economy. The Ram is also a clear winner on this score, boasting a highly impressive combined rating of 10.2L / 100km compared to the Chevy's distinctly less attractive 13.8L / 100km figure.
The difference in powertrain quality is just as pronounced when it comes to the transmission. As standard, the Ram boasts a smooth 8-speed auto box which gives more versatile performance under varying conditions than the Chevrolet's less impressive 6-speed automatic option.
Payload and Towing Capacities
In the capability area, the two trucks are closely matched. The Ram has the edge in payload capacity, with a maximum 1,045kg set against its competitor's 1,036kg. However, when it comes to towing, the Chevy has a slight advantage with its capacity of 6,090kg nudging ahead of the Ram's 5,795kg.
But in both capability areas, the differences are so small as to be realistically unimportant: both trucks do a pleasingly solid job.
Cargo Management
Despite the similarities in the capability figures, the Ram has two significant advantages that put it ahead in the cargo game. First, its two-door multifunction tailgate opens to a full 88 degrees, making access easier for full use of the payload capacity.
Second, the Ram 1500 also features a newly upgraded RamBox Cargo Management System which provides secure storage of valuable tools and equipment. For a working truck, these seemingly small details can really matter.
Cabin Features
While a luxurious interior might not be high on the priority list for a workhorse truck, the 2020 Ram 1500 can make the working day pass more comfortably thanks to its relatively high level of tech. A mammoth 12" touchscreen makes the truck's comfort ambitions clear from the start, ably supported by a high-powered audio setup and the industry-leading Uconnect 4C NAV infotainment system.
2020 Ram 1500 vs. 2020 Chevrolet Silverado: The Verdict
Both trucks offer an attractive mix of capability and workhorse reliability, but the 2020 Ram 1500's combination of comfort, performance, and fuel economy make it the winning choice for a truck that works as hard as you do.